FORECLOSED instal the new: What You Can Keep and What You Need to Leave Behind When Leaving a Foreclosed Home

It's a sad reality that many homeowners facing foreclosure are forced to leave their homes in disarray, taking permanent fixtures with them as they depart. However, there is hope for those who wish to retain some of these items as long as they agree to replace them with new ones. The good news is that you don't need to install top-of-the-line replacements; even basic upgrades will suffice.

When it comes to making improvements in a foreclosed home, many people opt for cosmetic changes like upgrading shower heads, adding chandeliers, or installing decorative light socket covers. However, the rules surrounding what can be taken and what must remain vary depending on where you live. In some areas, appliances like refrigerators, washers, and dryers are considered permanent fixtures of the property and would thus become the bank's property upon foreclosure.

On the other hand, in some regions, these appliances are treated as personal property and do not convey with the house. This means that the prior homeowner would retain ownership of them even after foreclosure. A shower curtain is another item that is typically considered personal property and can be taken by the prior homeowner.

For items that fall into a gray area, the rules depend on how they are handled in your jurisdiction. In most cases, however, it's clear-cut: toilets, for instance, are considered permanent fixtures and would belong to the bank once the home goes into foreclosure. The prior homeowner, on the other hand, would have the right to keep temporary fixtures, decorations, and personal property.

In general, my understanding is that the bank would have title to the permanent fixtures in the home, while the prior homeowner would retain ownership of temporary fixtures, decor, and other personal property. By knowing what you can take and what you need to leave behind, you can navigate the complex process of leaving a foreclosed home with greater ease.